Male Lion Portrait and Cheetah Cubs
Original colored ink drawings on paper or board • Tom Cryer
Style & Movement
Realistic Wildlife Art / Illustration
Medium & Technique
Pen and ink with wash and fine line technique; repetitive linear strokes create the texture of the fur (hatching and cross-hatching variants)
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, likely circa 1970s-1980s
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 8x10 inches or 11x14 inches; square-to-rectangular portrait formats
Subject Description
Naturalistic depictions of African wildlife. One piece features a close-up portrait of an adult male lion with a full mane; the second piece depicts three cheetah cubs clustered together in a triangular composition.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the works appear well-preserved behind glass, though frames show some minor edge wear and dust accumulation
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $300 (per individual original piece)
Auction Estimate
$50 - $150 (as a lot of two)
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial gallery or wildlife art trade show in the late 20th century; the artist's signature is clearly visible on the lion portrait
Art Historical Significance
Represents the popular mid-to-late 20th-century trend of decorative wildlife realism. While primarily illustrative, these works demonstrate a high level of technical proficiency in creating texture through ink work.
Notable Features
Distinctive fine-line ink technique used to mimic the tactile quality of animal fur; clear artist signature 'Tom Cryer' at the bottom edge of the lion's mane.
Condition Issues
Possible minor paper yellowing or acid burn from non-archival mats (not clearly visible but typical for the era); frame scuffs and general aging of the wood surrounds
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the works are framed with UV-protective museum glass and acid-free mats. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent ink fading.
Collector Notes
Tom Cryer